Building Bridges Through Aboriginal Culture:
The “Cultural Connections” Program

In October, the Aboriginal Engagement Team at Platform Youth Services joined forces with YES Employment to launch the “Cultural Connections” program, a meaningful initiative aimed at empowering young people through the rich traditions and stories of Aboriginal culture.

The program is designed to go beyond cultural education, aiming to foster identity, confidence, and reconciliation. By providing young people with a safe space to learn and express themselves, it opens the door to greater understanding and personal growth.

Program Goals

The “Cultural Connections” program is centred around four key objectives:

• Cultural Awareness: Teaching young people about the depth and significance of Aboriginal history and traditions.
• Identity Development: Encouraging young participants to explore their own identities, whether Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal, and find pride in who they are.
• Confidence Building: Providing opportunities to boost self-esteem through creative and hands-on activities.
• Reconciliation Promotion: Nurturing understanding and mutual respect between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal cultures.

Engaging Activities

At the heart of the program are interactive and creative activities that encourage connection and learning:

• Cultural Education: Participants gathered in a Yarning Circle, a traditional practice rooted in storytelling and respectful dialogue, to learn about Aboriginal heritage and customs.
• Creative Workshops: Activities such as painting and gardening allowed young people to express themselves artistically while forging a deeper connection to the land and its stories.

These activities created an environment where participants could engage in meaningful conversations, explore their creativity, and connect with their peers and the community.

Outcomes That Matter

The “Cultural Connections” program is already making an impact by promoting:

• Cultural Understanding and Respect: Participants leave with a deeper appreciation of Aboriginal traditions and practices, building bridges of respect and understanding.
• Identity and Confidence: By engaging with cultural education and creative expression, young people are gaining a stronger sense of self and pride in their identities.
• Community and Belonging: The program fosters an inclusive space where participants feel valued and connected to others.
• Reconciliation Awareness: The program emphasises the importance of reconciliation, empowering young people to be part of creating a more inclusive future.

Looking Ahead

The “Cultural Connections” program reflects Platform Youth Services’ commitment to uplifting young people and promoting cultural understanding. By providing young participants with the tools to explore their identities and learn from Aboriginal traditions, the program not only nurtures personal growth but also lays the foundation for reconciliation.

This initiative is a reminder of the power of culture in uniting communities and fostering mutual respect. Through programs like this, we hope to inspire the next generation to embrace diversity and contribute to a more connected, inclusive society.

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